Metro Manila Subway Ortigas, Shaw stations break ground

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) held a groundbreaking ceremony for the Ortigas and Shaw Boulevard stations and tunnels of the Metro Manila Subway Project (MMSP), attended by various government officials led by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr.

The MMSP's Contract Package 104 is a go

According to DOTr Secretary Jaime Bautista, the MMSP’s Contract Package 104 will generate over 18,000 jobs for Filipinos during its construction phase. The package covers the construction of the Ortigas and Shaw Boulevard stations, covering a total route of 3.397 kilometers.

Looking to service up to 519,000 passengers daily, the MMSP will be the first underground mass transit system in the Philippines. Motorists have been advised that the construction will affect traffic conditions and businesses in the area, including the Metrowalk Commercial Complex which will reportedly be demolished to pave way for the new stations.

Upon completion, the underground railway is expected to reduce travel time between Quezon City and Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) from the present one hour and 10 minutes to 35 minutes. It is seen to spur more economic activity, as well as improve commutes for the public.

The country's first subway system has been dubbed the Project of the Century

“With the improved linkages of key areas and business districts in the Metro, as well as the availability of stalls and other stores in the stations, and nearby markets, we can see more business opportunities to entrepreneurs, investors, and additional economic activity,” said President Marcos.

“As our people gain more time by cutting long hours of travel, we can now engage in more worthwhile and productive endeavors, making time for greater self-improvement and equally important – spending quality time with their families,” he added.

The MMSP is a 33-kilometer-long underground railway system that will be built with 17 stations, stretching from Valenzuela City to FTI-Bicutan in Parañaque City. It will be linked to the Unified Grand Central Station, which interconnects the Light Rail Transit Line 1 (LRT-1), the Metro Rail Transit Line 3 (MRT-3), and Metro Rail Transit 7 (MRT-7).

Get the latest in the transport sector at Philkotse.com.